Biography of James P. ThorneCottonwood and Watonwan Counties, MN Biographies

James P. Thorne was born in Rensselaerville, Albany county, New York, April 3, 1865, a son of William A. and
Mary G. (Snyder) Thorne, both natives of New York. His father was a shoemaker by trade. About 1880 he moved to
Vineland, New Jersey, where he lived his remaining days.

James P. Thorne was educated in the public schools of Albany county, New York. and as a young man he learned the
shoemaking trade, working with his father. About 1882 he gave up the shoemaking business and took a position in
a store as a clerk. For several years he was thus employed in a retail store, and then took a similar position
in a wholesale drug store at Albany, New York. Then for about a year he was in the employ of O. S. Pullman, as
traveling salesman. in 1887 he came to Elmore, Minnesota, and entered the employ of W. O. Dustin, with whom he
continued for fourteen years. In 1901 he came to Jeffers and opened up a general store in partnership with Mr.
Dustin, under the firm name of Thorne & Dustin. In a short time this firm established a good trade and they
have continued to do a prosperous business, with an increase of patronage from year to year.

Mr. Thorne was married, in 1902, to Marian Derdge. They have no children. Mr. Thorne is a Republican and has served
as a member of the school board, and also as village treasurer. He is a stockholder and director of the State Bank
at Jeffers. His fraternal affiliation is with the Masonic order, including a membership in the blue lodge at Westbrook;
the chapter at Windom; the commandery at Fairmount and the shriners, at Minneapolis.

Mr. Thorne's store is up to date in all of its features. His stock is extensive and includes a splendid variety.
His story enjoys a splendid patronage throughout the community.